TFM 361. Studio Production - Spring 2014 - Course Syllabus
Instructor: Timothy A. Powell, Ph.D. Professor. San Diego State University.
Office Location: COM 124D
Office Hours: Thursday 1-2pm and by appointment.
Telephone: (619) 594-3520.
e-mail: tpowell@mail.sdsu.edu
Classroom: COM 172 (Studio A)
Lab: COM 172 (Studio A)
Class Meetings: T TH 10am-12:20pm.
Prerequisites:
Prerequisites TFM 110 and TFM 121, 122, 123 or TFM 314 with a grade of B or better. Proof of
completion of prerequisites REQUIRED (copy of transcripts).
Textbooks and Other Required Student-Furnished Materials:
1) Portable Hard Drive with at least 80GB of free space.
General Methodology Used in Teaching the Course:
This course is an intermediate production practicum course emphasizing live, multi-camera and in-studio
video production. This is an intensive hands-on workshop that emphasizes project-based learning. In
addition to the invaluable experience you will gain in the completion of your projects, much of your
learning experience will come from participation in group exercises, projects, discussions and critiques.
This class is a process-oriented course where you will be required to plan and shoot television projects and
participate in the projects of others. You will also be expected to actively participate in individual and
group exercises.
Attendance is mandatory for all class sessions and as required for individual projects, production meetings,
etc. outside of class time. All students are expected to contribute to the class discussions, critiques and
projects.
This course assumes and assigns a significant commitment of time and resources outside of class due to the
rigors of producing a finished film or video program. Each student must assess his or her own time
commitments and plan accordingly. As in the film and television industry, deadlines must be met. Projects
or Notebooks turned in late will drop one letter-grade for each day late (ex. from a B+ to a B).
Course Objectives:
1) To build on existing knowledge and skills of television production especially in a live or multi-camera
studio environment.
2) To enhance student’s knowledge of multi-camera production techniques including remote and live
studio production through class exercises, presentations, workshops and discussions.
3) To refine and enhance student’s knowledge of all aspects of television, video and new media production
including producing, directing, technical operation of studio video equipment, lighting, sound
writing, and production planning.
4) To provide a creative workshop environment to assist in completion of television or video projects.
5) To provide hands-on experience with studio broadcast and technical equipment including basic
operation and techniques.
Assignments:
1) Directing Exercise
2) Project 1 - Directing
3) Project 2 – Studio Multi-camera production
4) Project 3 – Remote Multi-camera production
5) Production Planning Assignment
Deliverables:
Based on the deadlines included in this syllabus or assigned by the instructor per the student’s individual
production schedule, the following elements must be delivered for all final projects to receive a grade in the
course.
1) Viewing DVD-R of Project 1 and Project 2
2) Project Planning Report – To complete this assignment, you must attend one of the 3 plays
presented by the School of Theatre, Television, and Film this semester. You can purchase a ticket
online at http://theatre.sdsu.edu/streaming/html/shows.htm (The TTF website). You must show
proof of show attendance when you turn in your Production Planning Report.
3) Production Practicum Summary Report.
4) Other elements as assigned by instructor.
COURSE POLICIES
Attendance:
Attendance is required at ALL classes and production meetings. Attendance is also required at your
assigned group’s remote production including setup, rehearsal, shoot and strike in addition to any
productions that you commit to attending. Unexcused absences from class or production meetings
scheduled with the instructor will result in a severe grade penalty. Lateness or absence due to documented
medical or family emergency will be excused. However, project assignments are still due on time unless
previous arrangement with the instructor has been made. Excused absences still may receive a grade
penalty at the instructor’s discretion. Late projects may not be accepted and will also receive a grade
penalty at the instructor’s discretion (usually one full letter grade for work made up in a timely manner).
This may include work missed for excused absences.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Being late to class, leaving early from class, or “ducking out for a few minutes”
without PRIOR consent of instructor may result in a severe grade penalty. Attendance will be taken either
formally or informally throughout the class. Students are not involved in the particular project being taped
are still required to be in class and remain in class. MISSING CLASS TO WORK ON ANOTHER
FILM OR VIDEO PROJECT OR TO ATTEND A TELECINE SESSION IN LOS ANGELES IS
NOT AN EXCUSED ABSENCE!
Academic Dishonesty: Although there will be no papers due for this course, academic dishonesty policies
still apply to projects and exams. For example, having someone else do your project work and representing
it as your own work is the same as plagiarism.
Grading Procedures:
Much of the student’s grade will rely on their attendance at mandatory meetings and professionalism in the
production process. There will be a strict adherence to deadlines and delivery schedules. Your Project grade
will also be based on creative, technical and organizational aspects as well as satisfaction of learning
objectives. Students may be graded individually or in groups depending on the nature of the assignment.
You are not competing with others in the class. Your willingness to challenge yourself, ability to overcome
obstacles, achievement of your own personal goals and accomplishment of course objectives will be the
most important factors in determining your project grades. Each grade will be determined based on the
following point system:
Professionalism of Production Methods / Technical Skills
Skills Exam, Exercises and Assignments
Production Planning Report
Project 1 – Per Evaluation Rubric
Project 2 per evaluation rubric – Group Score
Project 2 – Individual Score
Project 3 – Remote Project
100 pts.
100 pts.
25 pts.
150 pts.
100 pts.
100 pts.
50 pts.
________
625 pts. Total
Attendance – The Following grade penalties will apply:
Late to class or remote assignment – 10 Pts.
Left Early or came back to class or remote assignment late after the break – 10 Pts.
Late more than 30-Minutes 15 Pts.
Unexcused Absence - 20 Points
Your grade will be based on a percentage of your overall score.
Incompletes:
No incomplete grades are given for this class unless:
1) You have completed at least 80% of the course
2) The Incomplete results from a documented medical or family emergency or other unusual circumstance
approved by the Department Chair’s office.
3) You are not failing the course at the time the Incomplete is requested.
Miscellaneous
All submitted work must be typed. Scripts and schedules must be submitted in acceptable formats.
Studio Rules: No food or drink will be tolerated in the studio or control room. If you bring any food or
drink into the studio, you may be asked to leave class and a grade penalty will result.
Note: Lab Fee: This course is subject to a $10. Lab Fee.
If you are a student with a disability and believe you will need accommodations for this class, it is
your responsibility to contact Student Disability Services at (619) 594-6473. To avoid any delay in the
receipt of your accommodations, you should contact Student Disability Services as soon as possible.
Please note that accommodations are not retroactive, and that I cannot provide accommodations
based upon disability until I have received an accommodation letter from Student Disability Services.
Your cooperation is appreciated.
TFM 361 – Spring 2014 - Schedule
DATE
Jan. 23
Jan. 28
Jan. 30
Feb. 4
Feb. 6
Feb. 11
Feb. 13
Feb. 18
Feb. 20
Feb. 25
Feb. 27
Mar. 4
Mar. 6
Mar. 11
Mar. 13
Mar. 18
Mar. 20
Mar. 25
Mar. 27
Apr. 8
Apr. 10
Apr. 15
Apr. 17
Apr. 22
Apr. 24
April 29
May 1
May 6
May 8
May 13
EXERCISE / PROJECT
Introduction, Safety Lecture and Quiz
Script Marking Exercise
Studio Equipment Workshops
Blocking Demonstration
Directing Exercise and Skills Exam
Directing Exercise and Skills Exam
Project 1 - 1
Project 1 – 2, 3
Project 1 – 4, 5
Project 1 – 6, 7
Project 1 – 8, 9
Project 1 – 10, 11
Project 1 – 12, 13
Project 1 – 14, 15
Project 1 – 16, 17
Project 1 – 18, 19
Project 1 – 20, 21
Project 1 – 22, 23
Project 1 – 24, 25
SPRING BREAK!
Project 1 – 26, 27
Project 1 – 28, 29
Project 1 Makeup and/or remote project
Project 1 Screenings
TBD
Project 2 Group 1 Shoot
Project 2 Group 1 Shoot
Project 2 Group 2 Shoot
Project 2 Group 2 Shoot
TBD
Final Screenings / Critique and Evaluation
TFM 361 Project 1 Evaluation
Name:
Pre-Production / Production Materials
Was the script marked properly? In the proper format? Were there enough
Marked Shooting Scripts to go around (at least 5)? Did cameras have
READABLE shot lists? Were these elements available at the start of class?
10 Points
Effective Use of Time
Were you prepared? Were you in command of your cast and crew? Did you
look at every camera angle with the blocking of the actors? Were all
rehearsals run smoothly and efficiently?
Were changes or adjustments accomplished quickly and decisively? Were you
on time? 30 Points
Directing Skills
Were cues called on-time and per the shooting script? Did you accomplish
changes or adjustments quickly and decisively?
20 Points
Communication
Did you communicate well with the crew and cast? Were your commands to
the crew clear and precise? Were you communicating well with your scene
directing partner?
20 Points
Camera Aesthetics
Did camera angles work with actor blocking? Were cuts and cues appropriate
for the scene (i.e. camera angle emphasized the action)? Were closeups and
tighter shots emphasized? From a directing standpoint, were shots properly
composed? 25 Points
Technical Issues
Is the microphone sound clear? Are the shots in focus and properly framed? Is
the program within the time requirements? Is the screening DVD turned in on
time and in the proper format? Does the DVD have appropriate sound levels,
video levels, etc.? Are graphics and credits done appropriately? 15 Points
Production Value of Scene / Direction
Was scene simple or complex (More complicated scenes get credit for
complexity)? What was the overall production value of the production? What
is the overall creative/technical quality of the final “edited” master? Were
choices made for creative reasons? 30 Points
TOTAL POINTS (150)
0
TFM 361
Remote Multi-Cam Project Description and Requirements
The goal of this project is to provide students with a real-world experience of taping a
live event. Each student group will produce and direct a multi-camera project shot onlocation. The production must be done essentially “live to tape,” although limited editing
will be allowed. Each group is responsible for producing and taping an event, show, or
performance that is already happening, in other words, an event where you don’t have
control of the schedule or have the ability to start and stop. You must cut the show with a
live line cut, although you may iso individual cameras, if desired. Every project must be
approved by the instructor well in advance of making a commitment to tape the
production. In addition, the instructor might schedule remote projects that you will be
able to work on to fulfill this requirement. Each student in the group is collectively
responsible for all aspects of the show. More than one person can direct various sections,
but only one person can be in charge at a time. However, the project must be one
complete project. Your groups will consist of 8-12 people, enough to effectively
accomplish the task. A minimum of 4 cameras must be used and the director must have
headset communication with the cameras at all times. All group members will be required
to delineate exactly what they did as part of the project. Your grades will be based on
your individual effort and involvement as well as the team's overall production
proficiency.
This production must have all of the elements of a finished show including main title and
end credits. A MARKED SHOOTING SCRIPT (in proper format and readable) or a
detailed run-down sheet must be completed and turned in NO LATER THAN the
Friday before your project tapes. Turning in work late will be subject to a grade penalty.
Remember, if you need people to help you, you must make arrangements with them.
Make sure to give them proper credit in your assessment, as project involvement with
other groups will definitely benefit their grade. You must get insurance for the Tricaster
system and you must have all cameras running into the system. You will be required to
turn in your original line cut with your finished show.
Your group will assign the following positions:
Producer
Director
Associate Director
Technical Director
Lighting / Camera Operator 1
Set / Camera Operator 2
Camera Operator 3
Sound / Communications (headset PLs)
Camera Operator 4
Camera Operator 5
Camera Operator 6
Remember, you will be representing the TFM program and SDSU at the venue of your
event. You must act professionally at all times. You MUST provide a finished DVD of
your finished production to whomever you are videotaping. Turn in a note with your
finished production stating the name and contact info of the person to whom you gave the
DVD. This will be part of your grade.
IMPORTANT:
You will be required to fill-out insurance forms from the University for the Remote
Production Equipment.
TFM 361
Project 2 Description and Requirements
Each student group will produce and direct a multi-camera, Sitcom-type project or
Webisode serries. The production must be done essentially “live to tape,” although
limited editing will be allowed. Each group is responsible for producing and taping a fulllength, 22 minute dramatic or comedic show approved by the instructor o4 6 complete
4-5 minute webisodes. Each student in the group must perform a significant function on
the project. It is up to each student to make sure that they will have a significant function
to perform. For example, a student who acts only as an A2 for the shoot has not
performed a significant function unless the audio requirements are quite extensive. This
person is then responsible for finding other ways to contribute to the production. For your
project, the script can be original, although it will probably be better to acquire a script. I
can help you with this process. The project must be a complete show or 6 part series,
with a beginning, middle and end, main title treatment, introduction, act breaks and
credits. You will follow a network format for your production.
You will receive two grades on the project; a group grade based on the quality of the
production per the attached rubric, and an individual grade based on your individual skills
and accomplishment as part of the project. Because of this method, all group members
will be required to delineate exactly what they did as part of a self-assessment and a
group assessment. This assessment will be collected separately on the last day of class. It
will be up to each individual if they want to share their assessment with their group
partners. Your grades will be based on your individual effort and involvement as well as
the team's overall production proficiency. Self-assessments should be honest. A negative
or positive self-assessment won’t necessarily lower your grade or increase it.
A MARKED SHOOTING SCRIPT (in proper format and readable), set design, light plot
and floorplan must also be completed and turned in NO LATER THAN the Friday
before your project tapes. Turning in work late will be subject to a grade penalty. Your
set must be REALISTIC and appropriate for your scene. This includes the floor, set
walls, furniture, set dressing, props, costumes, etc. Please take this seriously. If you need
people to help you outside of class (for building, pre-lighting, etc.), you must make
arrangements with them. You must also allow sufficient time to return the set to its
“normal” arrangement during your production time. There will be a grade penalty if you
fail to do this.
A marked shooting script and camera shot lists are required, Each group will be limited to
a total of 8 hours to set up, do final rehearsals and tape their production. Speak to the
instructor for details. Rehearsals will not be allowed in the studio outside of class time.
Grading will be based on group critique and self-evaluations as well as professionalism
of production. You will be responsible for providing your own videotape or XDCam
cartridges. You will have access to all 4 studio cameras. There must be at least one dolly
shot in the final show.
If you choose to write your own show, you must work with the instructor from the
beginning. The process is rigorous, and I strongly suggest you consider acquiring a script
that is already written.
TFM 361
Project 2 Group Evaluation
Group Members: ________________________ _______________________
Pre-Production / Production Materials
Did Set Crew have an adequate floorplan to work from? Were there enough
Marked Shooting Scripts to go around (at least 5)? Did cameras have
READABLE shot lists? Was the Marked Shooting Script neat, organized and
in the proper format? 20 Points
Effective Use of Time
Were you prepared? Were you in command of your cast and crew? Did you
look at every camera angle with the blocking of the actors? Was rehearsal run
smoothly and efficiently?
Were changes or adjustments accomplished quickly and decisively? Were you
on time? 30 Points
Set / Scene
Was set “realistic?” Did set work with scene? 15 Points
Camera Aesthetics
Did camera angles work with actor blocking? Were cuts and cues appropriate
for the scene (i.e. camera angle emphasized the action)? Were closeups and
tighter shots emphasized? Were shots properly composed from a directing
standpoint? 25 Points
Technical Issues
Is the microphone sound clear? Are the shots in focus and properly framed? Is
the program within the time requirements (8-10 minutes)? Is it turned in on
time and in the proper format? Does the tape have appropriate color bars,
sound levels, video levels, etc.? Are graphics and credits done appropriately?
20 Points
Production Value of Scene / Direction
Was scene simple or complex (More complicated scenes get credit for
complexity)? What was the overall production value of the production? Is it
appropriate for a television audience? What is the overall creative/technical
quality of the final “edited” master? Is music appropriate? Were choices made
for creative reasons? 40 Points
TOTAL POINTS (150)
TFM 361
Project 2 Individual Evaluation
Rubric Example for Directors
Name
Self-Assessment / Project Critique
Does self-assessment seem honest and complete? Is self-assessment
turned in on time, typed and of the proper length (three pages)?
20 Points
Directing Skills
Were cues called on-time and per the shooting script? Did you
accomplish changes or adjustments quickly and decisively?
25 Points
Communication
Did you communicate well with the crew and cast? Were your
commands to the crew clear and precise? Were you communicating
well with your partner?
30 Points
General
Were you prepared? Did you work well with your partners? Overall
contribution to the project?
25 Points
TOTAL POINTS (100)
TFM 361
Production Planning Report Assignment
There are 50 points possible for this assignment. Points will be assigned based on proof
of attendance of the play, technical analysis, creative treatment, presentation elements,
clarity of plan.
For this assignment, you must attend one of the plays offered by the School of Theatre,
Television, and Film.
Scenario: You have been contacted by PBS to videotape a performance of a play as a
pilot for the series, American Playhouse. Since plays are very difficulty to capture on
video and maintain the integrity of the live experience, you must develop a plan to
present to PBS in order to gain funding for your pilot. You must develop a shooting plan
which includes camera positions, a position for monitoring the cameras (video village), a
plan for recording sound, etc. The program will air live, but you have the option of doing
the performance with or without an audience. You must decide whether you would rather
work without an audience (in order to have more options for camera angles), or tape an
actual performance (which preserves the energy of the live audience). Where will you put
the cameras? How will you get good sound? You will be able to attend rehearsals, but the
camera operators are contracted and will not be able to see the show in advance. How
will communicate shots to the camera operators?
Your plan should consist of these minimum requirements:
1. 1 page of typed text summarizing the show. Who are the main characters,
what is it about, etc?
2. 1 page of typed text describing your overall production approach (ex
audience or not, etc.).
3. A camera floorplan with camera positions marked.
4. A list of main acting areas/positions.
5. One page of typed text justifying your camera positions.